Kristi Ray Ledgerwood, 44, was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in February 2022, which prompted her to make significant lifestyle changes. Having lost family members to the disease, she weighed 329 pounds and struggled with various health issues. Despite failing to stick to diets and exercise plans in the past, this time, she committed to a low-carb diet at her doctor’s recommendation. With the diet, a walking routine, and medication, she managed to lose 210 pounds and has successfully maintained her weight loss for almost a year. In addition to significant weight loss, Ledgerwood experienced improved diabetes markers, kidney function, inflammation reduction, better sleep, increased stamina, and no longer needing blood pressure medication.
Ledgerwood embraced the Mediterranean diet, limiting carbohydrates to 30 grams per meal and focusing on whole grains, beans, and vegetables for her carb intake. She prioritizes high-fiber foods, vegetables, berries, and protein, aiming for 120 grams of protein per day from sources like chicken, eggs, and protein bars. With a focus on protein and the help of an injectable medication prescribed by her doctor, Ledgerwood was able to control her appetite and establish a routine where she rarely snacks or eats after dinner. She transitioned to maintenance doses of the medication as she no longer needed to lose weight, and she follows her dietary plan without tracking every meal.
Incorporating a 5-mile-a-day walking routine was a significant part of Ledgerwood’s health transformation. Starting with an indoor recumbent bike due to her pain and arthritis, she gradually increased her walking distance. Now, she walks five miles daily, both outdoors and on a treadmill, seeing vast improvements in her back pain and overall fitness. She describes the feeling of being able to walk without pain as exhilarating and credits her dedication to starting off with small steps for her success. Her commitment to walking has become a source of joy and energy in her life.
Despite her remarkable weight loss, Ledgerwood faced challenges with excess skin, prompting her to undergo a skin-removal surgery known as a fleur-de-lis tummy tuck in 2024. Removing 4.4 pounds of loose skin from her abdomen, the surgery was not without difficulties during the recovery period. Although she had to pay for the procedure herself, Ledgerwood felt it was a necessary step to improve her physical and mental well-being. She plans to address excess skin on her arms in the future but intends to take a break before scheduling another surgery. Ledgerwood’s positive attitude and determination to address these challenges highlight her resilience and commitment to her health journey.
As a part of her health transformation, Ledgerwood found support and encouragement in the Start TODAY Facebook group, where she shared her successes and struggles. The community’s positive and motivating environment helped keep her focused and inspired on her journey. By connecting with others facing similar health challenges, Ledgerwood found a sense of camaraderie and encouragement that contributed to her progress. The support from friends, family, and the online community played a vital role in maintaining her motivation and commitment to her health goals.
Ledgerwood’s story serves as a testament to the transformative power of making sustainable lifestyle changes to improve health and well-being. Through a combination of a low-carb diet, regular exercise, proper medical care, and a supportive community, she was able to achieve significant weight loss, manage her diabetes, and improve her overall quality of life. Her journey highlights the importance of perseverance, self-care, and seeking support when faced with health challenges. By sharing her experiences and inspiring others through her story, Ledgerwood continues to be a source of motivation and hope for those on similar paths to better health.